Teaching #25: Two Types of Suffering
The Jungian psychologist, Helen Luke identified two types of suffering; one you are to bear, the other you are to abandon. The one to be borne, Luke called “essential suffering,” meaning the objective experiences of pain and loss. The suffering you are to let go of … is your subjective reaction to loss, anxiety, and disappointment.
Chapter 7, Pg 68-69
For your reflection: Start to discern how much of your suffering is “objective” and how much is “subjective.” Practice this discernment in all types of life situations — in “small” situations such as when you’re just irritated or restless and in “big” situations” such as when you’re angry, disappointed, or filled with uncertainty or fear.